Hamilton West commencement marks next chapter in students’ lives
by James McEvoy, Managing Editor
TRENTON – Nearly 300 Hamilton High School West seniors processed together last week as they had for several years with a mixture of joy and sadness in knowing that it would be for the last time.
Faculty, staff and families honored the graduates at the 2013 commencement ceremony held at the Patriots Theater at the War Memorial June 20.
Principal Katherine Taylor addressed the students, congratulating them not only for their pending graduation, but for a host of academic, extracurricular and athletic accomplishments achieved during their high school careers.
”This day brings mixed emotions for many,” Ms. Taylor acknowledged. “It is a time to look back as well as forward. I have had the privilege of spending the last four years with the students here today.
”They are an outstanding group of hard working young people,” she added. “You have accomplished much and made memories that will last a lifetime.”
Ms. Taylor also noted the giving nature of her students, which culminated in a series of fundraising events that raised $5,000 for classmates Tom Ruble and Doug Hess, both sophomores.
According to Ms. Taylor, Tom was injured in snowboarding accident in the spring while Doug bravely continues his battle against cancer.
”These amazing events brought our school family together and demonstrated their support of their classmates,” she said, noting the students also supported the Mercer Food Bank, the Trenton Soup Kitchen and the New Jersey Children’s Home Society.
She also thanked her faculty and staff in addition to the parents and families for their role in preparing for the major milestone of graduation.
As her remarks came to a close she noted the diversity of the student body that would ultimately be united by a singular theme of success.
”Hamilton West students are scholars, athletes, musicians, artists, carpenters, landscapers, plumbers, electricians, chefs and much more,” she said. “Each of you have taken a journey that is uniquely your own.
”I challenge you to continue your journey in life with a positive attitude. Your attitude defines you,” she added. “A winning attitude begins with optimism, confidence and maturity. Reach for the stars never settling for mediocrity.”
The 2013 graduating class includes 30 students recognized for achieving the President’s Award for Educational Excellence and 14 who earned the President’s Award of Educational Achievement.
In addition, according to school officials, the 297 members of Class of 2013 earned approximately $750,000 in school and community scholarships and awards.
One fourth of graduating seniors intend to continue their education at a four-year college or university. Sixty percent will also continue their education at a two-year, technical or post-secondary education institution.
Seven percent plan to enter the work force while three percent will serve in the military. The remaining students have yet to finalize their plans, but like their classmates know well that their future is now entirely up to them.